This Baked Pasta Casserole is the perfect blend of comforting pasta, savory minced meat, and a creamy, cheesy topping that bakes to golden perfection. Paired with a fresh salad, it’s an all-in-one meal that’s sure to please the entire family. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 9 ounces (250 g) pasta
- 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling pasta)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, grated
- 14 ounces (400 g) minced meat
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 3 eggs
- 1 ounce (30 g) sour cream
- 1 ounce (30 g) mayonnaise
- 7 ounces (200 g) cheese, grated
For the Fresh Salad:
- 8-12 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red onion, sliced into half rings
- 1 cup boiling water
- 2 tablespoons wine vinegar
- 1 avocado, diced
- 4 ounces (120 g) fresh mozzarella cheese, torn
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
Directions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Fill a pan with water and bring to a boil. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and a drizzle of olive oil. Stir well.
- Add 9 ounces (250 g) of pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Meat Filling:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
- Add grated garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add 14 ounces (400 g) of minced meat and cook until browned. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon oregano, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon paprika. Stir well to combine.
- Layer the Casserole:
- Preheat the oven to 360ºF (180ºC). Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil.
- Start by layering half of the cooked pasta in the dish, followed by a layer of the seasoned minced meat. Repeat with the remaining pasta and meat.
- Prepare the Topping:
- In a bowl, whisk together 3 eggs, 1 ounce (30 g) sour cream, and 1 ounce (30 g) mayonnaise until smooth.
- Pour the mixture evenly over the layered pasta and meat. Sprinkle 7 ounces (200 g) of grated cheese on top.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Prepare the Fresh Salad:
- Place sliced red onions in a bowl, pour 1 cup boiling water and 2 tablespoons wine vinegar over them, and let sit for a few minutes. Drain.
- In a salad bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, drained onions, diced avocado, and torn mozzarella cheese.
- Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Season with 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 1 teaspoon oregano. Toss gently to combine.
- Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice and serve with the fresh salad on the side.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this casserole hot with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added freshness. The accompanying salad adds a bright and tangy contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole.
Cooking Tips
- Prevent Pasta from Sticking: Adding olive oil and stirring frequently while boiling will prevent the pasta from clumping.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the meat filling and boil the pasta in advance. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.
- Cheese Choice: Use mozzarella or cheddar for a melty, gooey topping. A combination of cheeses can add extra flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in Protein: This dish is packed with protein from the minced meat, cheese, and eggs, supporting muscle health.
- Balanced Meal: The casserole offers carbs, protein, and fats, while the salad provides fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats from avocado.
- Nutrient-Rich: The fresh salad ingredients are rich in vitamins C, E, and antioxidants.
Dietary Information
- Contains Gluten and Dairy
- Not Suitable for Vegetarians or Vegans
- Can be Modified: Use gluten-free pasta and dairy-free cheese for those with dietary restrictions.
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Cover with foil when reheating in the oven to prevent drying out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that kids and adults will enjoy.
- Complete Meal: A hearty casserole combined with a fresh salad makes this a balanced and filling meal.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can have a delicious homemade casserole ready in no time.
Conclusion
This Baked Pasta Casserole with Fresh Salad is a satisfying and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a comforting dish to enjoy on a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Enjoy the rich flavors of the casserole paired with the refreshing salad for a delightful meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any pasta shape will work, though shorter types like penne or fusilli are best for layering. - Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey makes a leaner alternative to beef. - How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Substitute the minced meat with a plant-based ground meat alternative or cooked lentils for a vegetarian version. - What can I use instead of sour cream and mayonnaise in the topping?
Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier substitute. - Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. - How do I prevent the casserole from drying out in the oven?
Cover with foil if it starts to brown too quickly or seems dry during baking. - Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Yes, adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini is a great way to boost the nutritional content. - Can I use store-bought sauce instead of making the meat filling?
You can use a jar of your favorite pasta sauce to simplify the recipe. - Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It reheats well, making it a great option for meal prepping lunches or dinners. - Can I omit the eggs in the topping?
The eggs help bind the topping, but you can replace them with a vegan egg substitute if necessary.